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Montenegro in Vogue: 6 Reasons Montenegro May Be This Year’s Most Tempting Travel Destination

11.01.2017.

With its rugged mountain views and glistening seaside ports, it’s surprising that the charm and allure of Montenegro has been reserved for locals or those visiting from other Balkan states. Thanks to new cruise ship routes, high-end hotel openings, and a flood of interest from off-the-beaten-path travel enthusiasts, Montenegro is quickly becoming the place to go on the Adriatic. From sweeping views to a fresh focus on food—and ample outdoor activities to keep your heart pumping—this often-overlooked country might be the most surprising place you visit in 2017.

Uncluttered CoastlineAlthough Croatia boasts more beaches and sprawling Adriatic coastline, Montenegro’s claim to fame lies in its unspoiled terrain. The water—which is more opal than cerulean—sparkles in the afternoon sun and the bevy of pristine sandy beaches offer spellbinding views of the country’s iconic limestone cliffs. Be sure to visit Budva, the country’s hottest tourist spot—with a vaguely Miami vibe, it boasts a slew of buzzy (and fascinating) bars, a gorgeous old town, and miles of beaches. Not all of the beaches in this Venetian-inspired city are bustling, though; hidden down an unassuming narrow path, Mogren offers views without the crowds. Far quirkier is Ulcinj’s 7.5 miles of picture-perfect shore, featuring one of the country’s top nudist beaches and some of the best people-watching. A little more exclusive—and once the holiday playground of Marilyn Monroe—is Sveti Stefan, another stretch of coastline worth exploring. The medieval residential village turned luxury islet has a public beach that sits right outside of the city’s walls that offers beachgoers an unparalleled view of the 15th-century buildings. With their outstanding red roofs, they cut a striking contrast to the astonishing blue water and the island’s unique and craggily rocky coast.